Stanford Type A Acute Retrograde Aortic Dissections: From Surgical to Endovascular Strategy?

Acute type A retrograde aortic dissection is characterized by a port of entry located in the descending aorta near the subclavian take-off, and is currently treated with surgery. Our experience with two patients who underwent a complicated postoperative course stimulated a review of the current literature and discussion of possible alternative strategies in light of recent advances in endovascular treatment.